Mechanical Operator

About the Role

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Mechanical Operator with a background in mechanical engineering to oversee, maintain, and optimize our automated high-speed mask manufacturing lines (producing N95 and surgical masks) at our Kiluvya Plant. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring seamless daily production, carrying out preventive and corrective maintenance, and upholding our strict quality and cleanroom safety standards.

If you have a strong mechanical aptitude, enjoy troubleshooting high-speed machinery, and want to play a crucial part in safety equipment manufacturing, we want to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities & Tasks

1. Daily Operations & Pre-Start Verification

• Pre-Start Checks: Inspect all mechanical alignments, raw material feeds (meltblown, spunbond, nose clips, earloops), and verify proper material tensioning.
• Pneumatic Monitoring: Monitor compressor oil levels, check air pressure stability (5–7 bar), and drain condensate moisture from air filters and tanks.
• Ultrasonic Optimization: Calibrate and test high-frequency ultrasonic welding generators and horns for clean, precise earloop and edge sealing without fabric burning.
• Electrical Safety Walk: Visually inspect control panels, emergency stops (E-stops), and power lines for wear, overheating, or loose connections.
• HMI Monitoring: Program, monitor, and adjust production parameters via electronic Human-Machine Interface (HMI) touchscreens to maintain optimal speed and alignment.
• Quality & Output Checks: Inspect finished masks for structural integrity, correct sizing, and weld strength. Keep the workspace clean and remove scrap materials at the end of every shift.

2. Preventive Maintenance & Servicing

• Weekly Maintenance: Clean and lubricate high-speed moving parts (drive chains, gears, cam mechanisms, cutting rollers, linear guide rails), inspect pneumatic circuits for leaks, clean ultrasonic horns/anvils to prevent residue buildup, and audit weekly scrap rates.
• Monthly Servicing: Perform comprehensive electrical terminal tightening, complete compressor deep servicing (oil, filters, belts), inspect main drive shafts/bearings for backlash, tune ultrasonic systems, and test all safety interlocks, light curtains, and emergency power-off systems.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: Minimum of a Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• Experience: At least 2 years of experience working as a mechanical operator, production technician, or maintenance engineer in an automated manufacturing or cleanroom environment.
• Technical Skills: Strong proficiency in reading electrical/mechanical schematics, operating HMI touchscreens, handling pneumatic systems, and tuning ultrasonic welding equipment.
• Safety Mindset: Deep familiarity with industrial safety practices, including LOTO procedures, E-stop systems, and cleanroom compliance.
• Location & Commute: Ability to reliably commute to or work on-site at our Kiluvya Plant.
• Soft Skills: Excellent problem-solving abilities, high attention to detail, ability to thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, and readiness to respond to urgent line stoppages.